For decades, people have been talking about the health benefits of red wine. If you are old enough, drinking a glass of red wine in the evening hours might be a great way to improve your blood pressure, lower your risk of certain cancers, and even promote longevity. However, how is it possible that alcohol could actually be good for your health? Keep reading to learn more about ten ways red wine can contribute to a happier and healthier lifestyle. It is essential that you drink responsibly and never drive a car or operate machinery while under the influence of alcohol. Consuming more than one glass of wine per night may also have adverse effects on your health.

Blocks Damaging Free Radicals

Free radicals and oxidative stress can take a toll on your body from your hair, skin, and nails to your overall health. Luckily, wine is packed with antioxidants that attack both free radicals and other stressors. Both red and white wine has antioxidants, but red seems to have moderate amounts. However, drinking red wine excessively will not make your skin radiant or your hair strong. You must consume only one glass every night or so.

Boosts the Immune System

Although drinking red wine will never replace your balanced diet and daily vitamins, you can have a glass per day to boost your immune system. Consuming alcohol in moderation will help ward off infections. However, excessive consumption will only cause adverse effects, so be sure to limit yourself to one glass of red wine daily.

Increases Bone Density

With high levels of silicon, red wine might help increase bone mineral density. With stronger bones, you can reduce the chance of osteoporosis. As you get older, the bones become more brittle. Sipping on one of your favorite red wines can strengthen your bones. Consider alternating a warm cup of milk at night with a glass of wine instead.

Improves Cholesterol Levels

The phenols in red wine contain tannins, which hold procyanidins. They can help lower bad LDL cholesterol. The resveratrol present in the beverage can also decrease LDL and increase good HDL cholesterol. In turn, if you have high blood pressure, red wine might help. Medicinal red wine can help improve both your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Decreases the Chance of a Stroke

You might already know that alcohol thins your blood. The phenols in wine act as a natural blood thinner, which can help break up blood clots that might cause a stroke. Further, phenols in red wine work as a blood thinner thanks to resveratrol. John Hopkins University Medical Center discovered that resveratrol from red grape skins, when turned into wine, can help protect against a stroke. It is crucial that you only drink light to moderate amounts because over-consumption can have the opposite effect and actually increase your risk of a stroke.

Supports Heart Health

Drinking red wine can improve your heart health. As mentioned before, it contains phenols. A particular type known as tannins contain procyanidins is especially beneficial for fighting off cardiovascular disease. The Israel Institute of Technology conducted a study that revealed red wine enhanced blood vessel cell health and improved blood circulation.

Reduces the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Did you know that the resveratrol found in red wine is also linked to improving your body’s sensibility to insulin? Insulin resistance is a contributing factor to Type 2 diabetes. Therefore, consuming a glass of red wine in the evening cannot only be enjoyable but also decrease your chance of getting Type 2 diabetes.

Fights Against Cancer

Drinking a glass of red wine might help lower the risk of cancer. Resveratrol can help fight against cancerous cells alongside antioxidants as they combat damaging free radicals. Harvard Medical School also found that consuming red wine in moderation, which is about four to seven glasses per week, can help men who are at risk for prostate cancer. Red wine can also help ward off colon and breast cancer.

Progresses Cognitive Function

There are chemicals in red wine that can help your brain’s neurons from dying. Having one glass of red wine improves your brain’s function and might even help protect against the onset of dementia and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s. Make sure you drink red wine in moderation. Do not overconsume alcohol otherwise, you will deal with negative side effects.

Promotes Longevity

The popular Mediterranean diet promotes longevity. Some of the core ingredients in the diet are vegetables, olive oil, and wine. As mentioned multiple times, resveratrol has beneficial healing power. Harvard Medical School researchers discovered resveratrol activates an anti-aging protein within the body. Thus, your overall health and longevity are also triggered when you have an evening glass of wine.